Mexican Street Corn Salad Recipe with Creamy Lime Dressing
Mexican street corn salad brings the soul of vibrant street food straight into the kitchen with bold flavor and comforting texture. Inspired by the famous elote sold by vendors across Mexico, this dish captures the creamy tang, smoky corn, and fresh herbs that make the original so loved. Each bite delivers warmth, brightness, and a gentle heat that feels satisfying without overwhelming the palate. Corn has long played a central role in Mexican cuisine, and this salad honors that tradition while offering a modern and easy to serve format.
Crowded markets, sizzling grills, and the scent of roasted corn often come to mind when thinking about Mexican street corn. That atmosphere is part of the magic. Mexican street corn salad recreates that experience in a bowl. It feels familiar yet exciting. Home cooks love it because the recipe is simple while the flavors feel layered and thoughtful. The balance of creamy dressing, citrus, herbs, and spices turns humble corn into something memorable.
This salad works beautifully as a side dish, a topping, or even a light meal. Summer gatherings often feature it because it pairs well with grilled foods and fresh drinks. Cooler months welcome it too since it brings brightness and comfort at the same time. Mexican street corn salad offers flexibility for different diets and preferences. It also delivers strong visual appeal with pops of yellow corn, green herbs, and white cheese.
Search engines favor content that explains not just how to cook but why a dish matters. Mexican street corn salad has history, flavor, and adaptability. That combination makes it a popular search topic and a favorite recipe for home kitchens everywhere. The sections below explore every detail, from ingredients to serving ideas, so readers can feel confident creating a dish that tastes authentic and satisfying.
Ingredients Needed
Fresh ingredients define the quality of Mexican street corn salad. Each component adds a layer of taste or texture. Corn brings sweetness. Lime adds acidity. Cheese offers richness. Herbs provide freshness. Using high quality ingredients ensures the salad tastes bold and balanced rather than flat.
The table below lists common ingredients along with approximate calorie counts per serving portion. Values may vary depending on brands and quantities used.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Approximate Calories |
|---|---|---|
| Corn kernels | 2 cups | 260 |
| Mayonnaise | 3 tablespoons | 270 |
| Sour cream | 2 tablespoons | 60 |
| Cotija cheese | 0.5 cup | 180 |
| Fresh lime juice | 2 tablespoons | 10 |
| Cilantro | 0.25 cup | 5 |
| Chili powder | 1 teaspoon | 8 |
| Garlic | 1 clove | 5 |
| Salt | To taste | 0 |
| Black pepper | To taste | 2 |
Corn can be fresh, frozen, or canned. Fresh corn delivers the best texture and sweetness. Frozen corn works well when fresh corn is out of season. Canned corn should be drained and rinsed thoroughly to remove excess sodium.
Cotija cheese is traditional and provides a salty bite. Feta cheese can be used if cotija is unavailable. Cilantro adds a fresh herbal note that defines the salad. Lime juice brightens the entire dish and balances the creamy dressing.
Step by Step Cooking Instructions
Cooking Mexican street corn salad involves simple steps that reward patience and attention. Each stage builds flavor and ensures the final dish tastes cohesive.Discover even more flavors in Greek Salad.
Begin by preparing the corn. Heat a large skillet over medium high heat. Add the corn kernels directly to the dry pan. Stir occasionally and allow the corn to char slightly. This step mimics the smoky flavor of street grilled corn. Continue cooking until the corn looks golden in spots and smells fragrant. Remove from heat and allow it to cool slightly.
While the corn cools, prepare the dressing. In a large mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise and sour cream. Stir until smooth and creamy. Add fresh lime juice and mix again. The acidity should cut through the richness without overpowering it. Add minced garlic, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir well so the spices distribute evenly.
Add the warm corn to the bowl with the dressing. Gently fold until each kernel is coated. The warmth of the corn helps the flavors meld together. Sprinkle in crumbled cotija cheese and chopped cilantro. Fold carefully to avoid breaking the corn or turning the salad mushy.
Taste the salad and adjust seasoning. Add more lime juice if it needs brightness. Add salt if it tastes flat. Add chili powder if extra warmth is desired. Allow the salad to rest for a few minutes before serving. This resting time allows the flavors to blend and deepen.
Serve slightly warm or at room temperature. Refrigeration is optional but not required unless storing leftovers. The texture remains best when the salad is not overly chilled.
Tips for Customizing the Recipe
Mexican street corn salad welcomes creativity. Home cooks can adjust ingredients to suit personal taste, dietary needs, or available pantry items.
Protein additions turn the salad into a more filling dish. Grilled chicken, shrimp, or black beans blend well with the existing flavors. Each option adds substance without overpowering the corn.
Spice levels can be adjusted easily. Jalapeno or serrano peppers bring fresh heat. Smoked paprika adds depth. Hot sauce offers controlled intensity. Always add spice gradually and taste often.
Dairy free versions work well too. Use plant based mayonnaise and skip the cheese or replace it with nutritional yeast. The salad still tastes creamy and satisfying.
Texture variations add interest. Diced red onion provides crunch. Avocado adds richness. Roasted red peppers bring sweetness. Toasted pumpkin seeds offer nuttiness.
Herbs can be swapped based on preference. Parsley offers a mild green note. Green onions add sharpness. A mix of herbs creates complexity without confusion.
Nutritional Information
Mexican street corn salad delivers a balance of carbohydrates, fats, and micronutrients. Corn provides fiber and natural sweetness. Lime juice offers vitamin C. Cilantro contributes antioxidants. Cheese and mayonnaise add fat that supports satiety.
A typical serving contains moderate calories and feels filling. Portion control matters due to the creamy dressing. Pairing the salad with lean protein and vegetables creates a balanced meal.
The dish suits vegetarian diets easily. Gluten free eaters can enjoy it without modification. Sodium levels depend on cheese and seasoning choices, so adjusting salt helps manage intake.
Serving Suggestions
Mexican street corn salad fits many dining occasions. Serve it alongside grilled meats such as chicken, steak, or fish. The creamy tang complements smoky flavors beautifully.
Taco nights benefit from this salad as a side or topping. Spoon it over tacos, burrito bowls, or quesadillas. It adds moisture and contrast.
Potlucks and picnics welcome this dish because it travels well and appeals to many tastes. Serve it in a large bowl with a garnish of extra cilantro and cheese for visual appeal.
For a lighter option, serve the salad over mixed greens. Add sliced avocado and a drizzle of lime juice. The result feels fresh and satisfying.
Mexican Street Corn Salad Recipe with Creamy Lime Dressing
Course: Salad recipes2
servings10
minutes15
minutes110
kcalIngredients
Fresh yellow squash or zucchini
2 medium sized squash sliced into rounds
Olive oil
1 tablespoon
Salt
Half teaspoon or to taste
Black pepper
Quarter teaspoon
Garlic powder
Half teaspoon
Paprika
Half teaspoon
Parmesan cheese optional
2 tablespoons grated
Fresh herbs optional
Parsley or thyme for garnish
Directions
- Wash the squash well and pat dry using a kitchen towel. Cut the squash into evenly sized rounds so they cook evenly.
- Place the sliced squash in a mixing bowl. Add olive oil, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Toss well until all slices are evenly coated.
- Preheat the air fryer to 380 degrees Fahrenheit for about 3 minutes.
- Arrange the squash slices in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Do not overcrowd the basket. Cook in batches if needed.
- Cook for 12 to 15 minutes. Shake the basket halfway through cooking to ensure even browning.
- Check for doneness. The squash should be tender inside and lightly golden on the outside.
- If using parmesan cheese, sprinkle it over the squash during the last 2 minutes of cooking.
- Remove from the air fryer and garnish with fresh herbs if desired. Serve warm.
Recipe Video
Notes
- For crispier squash, slice slightly thicker and avoid adding too much oil. For extra flavor, a squeeze of fresh lemon juice can be added just before serving. This recipe works well as a side dish for chicken, fish, or vegetarian meals. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two days but are best enjoyed fresh.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Mexican street corn salad be made ahead of time
Yes. The salad can be prepared a few hours in advance. Store it covered in the refrigerator. Stir gently before serving and adjust seasoning if needed.
What type of corn works best
Fresh corn delivers the best flavor and texture. Frozen corn is a good alternative. Canned corn works when rinsed and dried thoroughly.
Is Mexican street corn salad spicy
The salad has mild warmth from chili powder. Spice level is adjustable. Adding fresh peppers or hot sauce increases heat easily.
How long does it keep in the refrigerator
Stored properly, the salad stays fresh for up to three days. Texture may soften slightly over time.
Can the salad be served warm
Yes. Many people enjoy it slightly warm. Room temperature also works well.
Conclusion
Mexican street corn salad offers comfort, color, and bold taste in every bite. The recipe celebrates simple ingredients treated with care and intention. Creamy dressing, smoky corn, fresh herbs, and bright citrus come together in a way that feels generous and satisfying.
Home cooks appreciate the flexibility and ease of preparation. Guests remember the flavor long after the meal ends. Each bowl tells a story of tradition and creativity shared at the table.
Preparing this dish invites experimentation and personal expression. Small adjustments create new experiences without losing the heart of the recipe. Mexican street corn salad continues to earn its place as a beloved favorite because it delivers joy
